One of the many magical charms of an exotic fruit box delivery is that each fruit carries its own geographical and cultural history. Here’s a look at the stories of three exotic fruits that not only delight the senses, but also take you on a global journey.
Snake Fruit / Salak Pondoh
Snake fruit is native to Java and Sumatra in Indonesia, where it grows in abundance on palm trees, and is popular due to its distinctive sweet aroma. In Thailand, street vendors often sell ready-peeled snake fruits so they can be consumed as a snack on the go. They are also added to stir-fries and curries, or used as an ingredient in dips and sauces.
The reddish-brown scaly skin of a snake fruit protects the creamy flesh within. The flavour is described as a pleasing mixture of sweet and tangy, with hints of pineapple, banana and jackfruit.
Mangosteen
The royally purple Mangosteen is native to Southeast Asia, although it is now established in the West Indies and parts of Central America.
It is rumoured that the nickname “The Queen of Fruits” arose because Queen Victoria offered a reward to anyone who could bring a fresh mangosteen. Another theory is that this luxurious fruit was offered as a delicacy by Thai royalty, hence the name. In traditional Thai medicine, it’s thought to have cooling properties that help to calm the mind.
Rambutan
Rambutan has a distinctive appearance, with red spines and soft white flesh. Native to Malaysia and Indonesia, it's a fruit commonly found in bustling tropical markets and gifted during festive seasons. Beneath its curious exterior lies a sweet, lychee-like centre that’s intensely refreshing.
It's said to symbolise abundance and prosperity in Southeast Asian folklore. In some Thai provinces, an annual rambutan festival is held to celebrate the fruit and its contribution to the culture and economy of the region.